Carter glad to put doping accusations behind him

Racing 92's Dan Carter, of New Zealand, holds the ball during a training session in Decines, near Lyon.Laurent Cipriani

FORMER All Black Dan Carter has spoken of his love for rugby and "would never do anything intentionally to bring it into disrepute”, following accusations of doping.

Carter and Racing 92 teammates Juan Imhoff and Joe Rokocoko were cleared of anti-doping breaches by the French Rugby Federation.

French newspaper L'Equipe had reported the trio tested positive for corticosteroids before June's Top 14 final in Barcelona.

Racing 92 had always denied reports its players had breached anti-doping rules, or had therapeutic use exemptions for "anomalous” drugs tests.

Carter has taken to social media, telling fans on his Instagram page: "I just received the ruling from the FFR (French Rugby Federation) today. No surprises that the FFR's ruling was that I'd done nothing wrong.

"I hold my integrity and the game of rugby's integrity in the highest regard.

"I love this game and owe so much to rugby that I would never do anything intentionally to bring it into disrepute.”

Carter thanked his family and friends for the support he had received.

"Whilst this whole episode is disappointing and frustrating, I support the authorities who work hard to ensure our game is played fairly,” he said.

"I am glad that we can now put all this behind us so I can now concentrate on playing rugby!”